Ms. Coyle is a long-time champion for women’s leadership, gender equality, and the rights of Indigenous Peoples, who has enjoyed a distinguished career in the post-secondary education and non-profit sectors, with a focus on international and local development.

Dr. McCallum is an advocate for social justice, who has provided vital dental and health services to northern, First Nations, and Indigenous communities throughout her career.

Both of these remarkable individuals have devoted their lives to helping others in Canada and around the world. They were chosen using the open merit-based process the Government put in place in early 2016.

“I am pleased to welcome Parliament’s newest independent senators. Ms. Coyle and Dr. McCallum have already built legacies in their respective fields, and I trust that they will represent their regions well while bringing the depth of experience and knowledge needed to serve in the best interest of all Canadians.” – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada